Police arrested a 46 year old man and recovered a stolen bronze maple leaf taken from the RCMP memorial in Moncton. The Codiac Regional RCMP acted on a tip they received Sunday. They tracked down the suspect and secured the missing piece of the monument, bringing relief to the community and the families of the fallen officers.
If you follow local news, you know how much this memorial means to the region. You will be glad to hear the artifact is finally safe.
The Investigation and Arrest
Officers arrested the man Monday at a business on Edinburgh Drive. They then executed a search warrant at a home on Church Street. There, investigators found the slightly damaged bronze leaf. Cpl. Luc Picard credited the public for providing crucial information that led to the recovery.
According to CTV News, investigators obtained clear evidence indicating the man possessed the stolen item.
A Special Delivery
The monument honors three Mounties killed in the line of duty on June 4, 2014. These officers are constables Fabrice Gevaudan, Dave Ross, and Doug Larche. Nadine Larche, widow of Doug Larche, first noticed the leaf was missing on August 12. She lost hope as weeks passed.
That changed Monday when she received a text from the RCMP. Six officers arrived at her door holding the recovered leaf.
“My daughter and I opened the door and six members were standing outside my door with the maple leaf in their hands and the biggest smiles on their faces,” Larche said. “I am not sure who was happier, us or them. It was super special.”
Community Significance
The bronze leaves measure 60 by 60 centimeters. They hold deep meaning for the community. Residents pressed their thumbprints into the bronze to show respect and honor the officers’ sacrifice.
Moncton Mayor Shawn Crossman expressed his relief. He noted the city was already working with the original artist to create a replacement. “This is the best possible outcome we could have hoped for,” Crossman said. The city will now determine how and when to reinstall the leaf at the Honour Garden monument.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the bronze maple leaf stolen?
Nadine Larche first noticed the leaf was missing from the memorial on August 12.
Where did police find the stolen leaf?
Officers recovered the leaf while executing a search warrant at a residence on Church Street in Moncton.
Who does the Moncton RCMP memorial honor?
The monument honors constables Fabrice Gevaudan, Dave Ross, and Doug Larche, who were killed in the line of duty on June 4, 2014.
What makes the bronze leaves special?
Each leaf features the actual thumbprints of Moncton residents, making them unique and irreplaceable pieces of community history.
Thanks to the RCMP officers who did the searching for this important piece of a very dark time in our history!” Lest we forget” the amazing job they do at keeping us safe! Thank You!